Natriuureettisiin

Natriuureettisiin refers to a group of peptide hormones that play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance within the body. These hormones are primarily produced and released by the heart muscle cells, specifically the atria, in response to increased blood volume and pressure. The most well-known natriuureettisiin peptides are atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP).

When the atria of the heart are stretched due to higher blood volume, they release ANP. Similarly, BNP is released from the ventricles in response to increased ventricular stretch. These peptides exert their effects by acting on the kidneys, blood vessels, and adrenal glands. Their primary actions include promoting the excretion of sodium (natriuresis) and water (diuresis) by the kidneys, which helps to reduce blood volume. They also cause vasodilation, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. Furthermore, natriuureettisiin peptides inhibit the release of renin and aldosterone, hormones that contribute to sodium and water retention and vasoconstriction. This collective action of natriuureettisiin peptides serves to lower blood pressure and alleviate the strain on the cardiovascular system. Measuring levels of ANP and BNP in the blood can be clinically significant, particularly in diagnosing and monitoring heart failure.